Our top 15 tips for road tripping the NC500

Here they are!

1. Don't use postcodes to navigate on the NC500. Use coordinates if you can, often postcodes won't lead you to the right area.

2. Book your accommodation in advance, particularly if travelling in the summer!

3. You will need to be confident driving on the left-hand side and reversing on single track roads!!

   

4. Do the route anti-clockwise. The best scenery is on the west coast, so leave the best until last!

5. Plan for your trip to be at least 5 days, otherwise you will be too rushed!

6. Pack for unpredictable weather! In Scotland the weather can change in the blink of an eye. Be prepared for all seasons.

7. Brush up on the NC500 road safety guidelines.

   

8. Make sure you pack midge repellent if travelling in midge season!

9. Download offline maps. Signal can be SO patchy if not non-existent at times.

10. Fill up your fuel tank at every stop you see! Filling stations are very limited along the NC500.

11. Download the Scottish Outdoor Access Code app or PDF — super handy if you're hiking or wild camping.

12. ATMs (cash machines) can be few and far between, especially in remote areas. Bring some cash for honesty boxes, small shops and car parks.

    

13. Bring a physical paper map as a backup in case all else fails. OS maps or NC500-specific ones are available online or in outdoor shops.

14. Consider packing a reusable coffee cup and water bottle! Lots of cafés offer discounts for bringing your own and it reduces waste on the route.

15. Many cafés and attractions are closed mid-week or outside of summer, always check opening hours in advance if there’s somewhere you’re excited to visit.